Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) Concentration in Tears of Eyes with Filtering Blebs

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: Thin cystic blebs complicate filtration surgery as they are more susceptable to leakage and hypotony. Therefore the pevention of bleb growth is important. Since matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are known to play an essential role in connective tissue remodeling and wound healing, MMPs might also be involved in bleb formation. The aim of our study was to determine whether an enhanced MMP-9 and MMP-2 secretion could be found in tear film of eyes with cystic blebs. Methods: Unstimulated tear fluid was collected from glaucoma patients with cystic (n=12) and flat (n=10) filtering blebs and from age matched normal controls (n=17). Levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were determined by gelatin zymography. Results: Active MMP-2 concentrations were detected in a significantly higher (P0.05). Conclusions:In our study, eyes with cystic blebs showed abnormally high levels of the active form of MMP-2 in the tear fluid. This suggests that MMPs may have a role in the development and healing of filtering blebs.

Keywords: enzymes/enzyme inhibitors • wound healing